What specific skills will be necessary for the Equity Manager position to be successful?

Asheville City Council is committed to supporting a community that is inclusive and diverse. A diverse community was identified as 1 of 8 key focus areas in the 2036 Vision City Council crafted in January 2016.

Council took the next step in supporting this focus area by setting aside money in the City’s 2016-2017 budget toward equity efforts. This includes the hiring of an Equity Manager. This position would be dedicated to helping the City achieve meaningful progress by evaluating delivery of programs and services and its decision-making on how to expand equity.

That’s a start. The expectation is that the person in this position will also build bridges with partner organizations, and help the City have more diverse boards and commissions as well as staff. Inclusiveness would also extend to opportunities for minority businesses to contract with the City. Equity would factor into infrastructure investments.

Before we advertise for this position, the City would like to hear from the community first. This will help management assess the specific skills necessary for the Equity Manager position to be successful. Community input will be gathered and considered in the development of recruitment materials.